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Science News Archive September 2018 - Page 26


Page 26 of 37

UBC breakthrough opens door to $100 ultrasound machine

Engineers at the University of British Columbia have developed a new ultrasound transducer that could lower costs to as low as $100. The device uses tiny vibrating drums made of polymer resin, reducing manufacturing costs.

SourceUniversity of British Columbia·JournalMicrosystems & Nanoengineering·DateSep 11, 2018
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

Apple iPhone 17 Pro delivers top performance and advanced cameras for field documentation, data collection, and secure research communications.

1 percent of children aged 9-10 self-identify as gay, transgender

A study by San Diego State University researchers found that about 1 percent of 9 and 10-year-old children surveyed self-identified as gay, bisexual or transgender. The study, utilizing the Adolescent Brain Cognitive Development dataset, provides unprecedented insight into early identity development.

SourceSan Diego State University·JournalJAMA Pediatrics·DateSep 11, 2018

Finding Nemo's genes

Researchers have successfully mapped the orange clownfish's genome using high-tech sequencing tools, creating a comprehensive genetic blueprint. The completed genome contains over 26,000 protein-coding genes and will aid in understanding reef fish biology, sex change, larval dispersal, and ocean acidification impacts.

SourceARC Centre of Excellence for Coral Reef Studies·JournalMolecular Ecology Resources·DateSep 11, 2018
CalDigit TS4 Thunderbolt 4 Dock

CalDigit TS4 Thunderbolt 4 Dock simplifies serious desks with 18 ports for high-speed storage, monitors, and instruments across Mac and PC setups.

New nanoparticles wait to release drugs, target infection

Researchers at Washington State University developed a new nanoparticle system that targets infections to release antibiotic and anti-inflammatory agents. This breakthrough technology aims to improve treatment for sepsis and bacterial infections by reducing the spread of bacteria and inflammation.

SourceWashington State University·JournalAdvanced Materials·DateSep 11, 2018

Montana State study gauges health of the Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem

A Montana State University study examines 35 ecological vital signs in the Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem, finding increased human population and density, as well as a changing climate, are affecting its overall health. The research also highlights opportunities for citizen scientists to gather data and contribute to ecosystem assessments.

SourceMontana State University·JournalEcosphere·DateSep 11, 2018

Newborns with congenital heart disease have enlarged kidneys

A study by Gemma Scholes and colleagues found that newborn babies with congenital heart disease tend to have significantly enlarged kidneys. This contradicts previous assumptions about organ development in these infants. The type of congenital abnormality also influences kidney size, with some having larger or smaller than normal kidneys.

SourceSpringer·JournalPediatric Research·DateSep 11, 2018
SAMSUNG T9 Portable SSD 2TB

SAMSUNG T9 Portable SSD 2TB transfers large imagery and model outputs quickly between field laptops, lab workstations, and secure archives.

Study reveals which transgender teens have highest suicide risk

A new study from the University of Arizona found that transmasculine adolescents and nonbinary teens are at the greatest risk for attempting suicide. The research highlights the need for targeted suicide-prevention efforts, particularly among these vulnerable groups.

SourceUniversity of Arizona·JournalPEDIATRICS·DateSep 11, 2018

NSF funds new integrative approaches to cognitive science, neuroscience

The National Science Foundation has awarded $16 million to 18 cross-disciplinary projects exploring the intersection of neural and cognitive systems. These innovative research approaches aim to tackle fundamental questions about the brain, developing new methods for studying neural activity and behavior.

SourceU.S. National Science Foundation·DateSep 11, 2018

Illinois engineers protect artifacts by graphene gilding

Researchers at the University of Illinois have developed a new method of protecting artifacts by coating them with a single layer of graphene on top of metal leaves, doubling their protective quality. The technique, known as graphene gilding, offers enhanced mechanical resistance and cost-effectiveness.

SourceUniversity of Illinois Grainger College of Engineering·JournalAdvanced Functional Materials·DateSep 11, 2018
Apple MacBook Pro 14-inch (M4 Pro)

Apple MacBook Pro 14-inch (M4 Pro) powers local ML workloads, large datasets, and multi-display analysis for field and lab teams.

Wetlands are key for accurate greenhouse gas measurements in the Arctic

A new study found that Arctic tundra, particularly wetlands, acts as a net carbon sink, sequestering atmospheric CO2 through plant uptake and growth. The region's ability to absorb and store carbon makes it essential for determining the Arctic's role in climate change.

SourceUniversity of Eastern Finland·JournalGlobal Change Biology·DateSep 11, 2018
Apple AirPods Pro (2nd Generation, USB-C)

Apple AirPods Pro (2nd Generation, USB-C) provide clear calls and strong noise reduction for interviews, conferences, and noisy field environments.

AGA expands workforce and research diversity work with NIH grant

The American Gastroenterological Association has launched a new initiative to foster opportunities for underrepresented minorities in gastroenterology research and career development. The program aims to provide training, mentoring, and leadership skills to promote diversity in the field.

SourceAmerican Gastroenterological Association·DateSep 11, 2018

How bad bacteria gain an edge in the gut

Clostridium difficile produces p-cresol to control intestinal microbiota and confer fitness advantage over natural protective bacteria. This compound may provide a novel drug target for reducing C. difficile infection.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Pathogens·DateSep 11, 2018

Research devises protocol for measuring distances within biomolecules

A standardized protocol for FRET has been established, enabling precise measurement of distances within biomolecules. This breakthrough methodology can overcome size and stability limitations of other structural biology methods, leading to targeted drug development and new research opportunities.

SourceClemson University·JournalNature Methods·DateSep 11, 2018
Sony Alpha a7 IV (Body Only)

Sony Alpha a7 IV (Body Only) delivers reliable low-light performance and rugged build for astrophotography, lab documentation, and field expeditions.

New bacterial strain named after Cornish discovery

A new bacterial strain, Staphylococcus cornubiensis, has been identified from a skin infection in Cornwall. The strain is genetically unique and likely belongs to the Staphylococcus intermedius group, which is also associated with pets.

SourceUniversity of Exeter·JournalINTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF SYSTEMATIC AND EVOLUTIONARY MICROBIOLOGY·DateSep 11, 2018

It pays to be nice to your employees, new study shows

A new study from Binghamton University found that benevolent leadership styles have a positive impact on employee performance, while authoritarian leadership has negative effects. The researchers discovered that showing compassion to employees motivates them to be better workers and increases job satisfaction.

SourceBinghamton University·JournalThe Leadership Quarterly·DateSep 11, 2018

Winner of Bernd T. Matthias Prize announced

Katsuya Shimizu received the prize for his discovery of superconductivity in non-superconducting elements under high pressures with a Tc up to 29K. The Texas Center for Superconductivity at the University of Houston sponsors the award, recognizing outstanding contributions to the field.

SourceUniversity of Houston·DateSep 11, 2018

Engrafted stem cell-derived lung organoids that model human lung development

Scientists have developed a method to create human lung organoids from embryonic stem cells, which can develop into mature alveolar type 1 and 2 cells. The study demonstrates the potential for these organoids to model human lung development, providing new insights into the disease.

SourceMary Ann Liebert, Inc./Genetic Engineering News·JournalStem Cells and Development·DateSep 11, 2018

Widely used youth behavior treatment may be ineffective -- study

A new study suggests that Functional Family Therapy (FFT), a widely used treatment for troubled young people, may not be as effective as claimed. The review of existing research found mixed quality evidence and high rates of reoffending with FFT.

SourceUniversity of Birmingham·JournalResearch on Social Work Practice·DateSep 11, 2018
Kestrel 3000 Pocket Weather Meter

Kestrel 3000 Pocket Weather Meter measures wind, temperature, and humidity in real time for site assessments, aviation checks, and safety briefings.

NASA sees Hurricane Olivia moving toward Hawaii

Hurricane Olivia is expected to bring heavy rainfall and strong winds to the Hawaiian Islands as it moves towards the state. The storm's cloud tops have temperatures near minus 70 degrees Fahrenheit, capable of generating heavy rainfall.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateSep 11, 2018

Immunology -- two for the price of one

A team of researchers has characterized the fates of individual phagocytes in the central nervous system, revealing that they can switch between pro-inflammatory and anti-inflammatory phenotypes. This discovery sheds light on the complex role of mononuclear phagocytes in neuroinflammatory diseases, such as multiple sclerosis.

SourceLudwig-Maximilians-Universität München·JournalNature Neuroscience·DateSep 11, 2018

September/October 2018 Annals of Family Medicine tip sheet

A study found that patients with higher continuity with their prescribing physician received fewer risky opioid prescriptions and were less likely to be hospitalized for opioid-related causes. However, long-term opioid use was associated with lower continuity scores than other medications, highlighting the need for improved prescribing...

SourceAmerican Academy of Family Physicians·JournalThe Annals of Family Medicine·DateSep 11, 2018

Wealthy countries less concerned about energy security, study suggests

A recent study published in Nature Energy found that people in wealthy countries are less concerned about the reliability and affordability of their energy supplies. The research, which analyzed data from over 44,000 people across Europe, highlights the importance of including economic and social factors in energy security policy.

SourceCardiff University·JournalNature Energy·DateSep 11, 2018
Apple iPad Pro 11-inch (M4)

Apple iPad Pro 11-inch (M4) runs demanding GIS, imaging, and annotation workflows on the go for surveys, briefings, and lab notebooks.

What catches our eye

Scientists from TUM discovered that individual nerve cells create parallel connections to three areas of the brain, establishing feedback loops that reinforce salient stimuli while suppressing others. This automatic attention control mechanism is also shared by humans, revealing insights into perception and consciousness.

SourceTechnical University of Munich (TUM)·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateSep 11, 2018

NASA finds wind shear pushing on Tropical Storm Isaac's center

Tropical Storm Isaac's circulation center has shifted away from the bulk of clouds and precipitation, indicating wind shear is at play. NASA satellite data reveals a vertically stacked system of rotating winds, with wind shear pushing against the storm, weakening its rotation and balance.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateSep 11, 2018

Beetle adapts chemical mimicry to parasitize different bee species

A beetle that tricks bees into carrying it into their nests has adapted its deceptions to local hosts, according to research. The larvae of the beetle lure male digger bees with chemical signals mimicking female sex pheromones, allowing them to feed on bee eggs and provisions.

SourceUniversity of California - Davis·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateSep 11, 2018

Microbe scientist Jessica Metcalf receives early-career award

Jessica Metcalf, a microbe scientist at Colorado State University, has been awarded an early-career grant to study the impact of lifestyle changes and antibiotics on the human gut microbiome. Her research aims to understand how these factors shape the microbiome and its role in human health.

SourceColorado State University·DateSep 11, 2018

New research unravels the mysteries of deep soil carbon

The study found that less food energy at depth makes it difficult for microbes to decompose organic carbon deposits, creating an underground storehouse. As a result, carbon is more likely to be stored long-term due to slower decomposition rates.

SourceDartmouth College·JournalSoil Biology and Biochemistry·DateSep 11, 2018
Apple Watch Series 11 (GPS, 46mm)

Apple Watch Series 11 (GPS, 46mm) tracks health metrics and safety alerts during long observing sessions, fieldwork, and remote expeditions.

Majority of women receive breast cancer diagnosis over the phone

A new study from the University of Missouri School of Medicine reveals that more than half of women with breast cancer are now receiving their diagnosis over the phone. The researchers found a significant shift in diagnosis delivery method since 2007, when approximately 25 percent of patients learned about their diagnosis via phone.

SourceUniversity of Missouri-Columbia·JournalSupportive Care in Cancer·DateSep 11, 2018

For the first time, a neural link between altruism and empathy toward strangers

Using fMRI scans, University of Pennsylvania researchers found that people who donated a kidney to an anonymous recipient were more sensitive to a stranger's fear and pain, with activation in the anterior insula brain region. This study provides the first clear link between real-world altruism and empathy for the pain of strangers.

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania·JournalPsychological Science·DateSep 11, 2018

Scientists develop new drug treatment for TB

Researchers at the University of Manchester have developed a groundbreaking new treatment for tuberculosis (TB), targeting the bacteria's defenses rather than killing it directly. The compound shows promise in animal studies, offering hope for a more effective and less toxic treatment option.

SourceUniversity of Manchester·JournalJournal of Medicinal Chemistry·DateSep 11, 2018

NASA satellite finds Hurricane Florence undergoing eyewall replacement

NASA's Aqua satellite observed Hurricane Florence undergoing an eyewall replacement cycle, which may lead to increased rainfall and storm intensity. The storm is expected to make landfall in North Carolina or South Carolina on Thursday, September 13, with severe weather warnings already in effect.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateSep 11, 2018
Meta Quest 3 512GB

Meta Quest 3 512GB enables immersive mission planning, terrain rehearsal, and interactive STEM demos with high-resolution mixed-reality experiences.

Folding poisons

Researchers at the University of Freiburg have discovered that Clostridium difficile toxins penetrate intestinal cells by exploiting a protein called TRiC. Blocking or inhibiting TRiC can prevent cell poisoning, offering potential new strategies for combating these bacterial infections.

SourceUniversity of Freiburg·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateSep 11, 2018

Inhaled version of blood pressure drug shows promise in treating anxiety, pain

A new study by Centre for Addiction and Mental Health suggests that an inhaled form of a high blood pressure medication may treat certain types of anxiety as well as pain. The treatment uses a short-acting nasal spray called amiloride, which targets physiological changes in brain functioning linked to anxiety and pain sensitivity.

SourceCentre for Addiction and Mental Health·JournalJournal of Psychopharmacology·DateSep 11, 2018

Study finds air purifiers may benefit fetal growth

A new study conducted in Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia found that high-efficiency particulate arresting (HEPA) air purifiers can decrease fine particulate matter by 29% and lead to babies weighing up to 85 grams more at term. The results provide further evidence of the negative impact of air pollution exposure during pregnancy on fetal growth.

SourceSimon Fraser University·JournalEnvironment International·DateSep 11, 2018
Garmin GPSMAP 67i with inReach

Garmin GPSMAP 67i with inReach provides rugged GNSS navigation, satellite messaging, and SOS for backcountry geology and climate field teams.

Delayed childbearing is a growing source of multiple births, study shows

A study published in Obstetrics & Gynecology found that delayed childbearing is a significant contributor to the increase in multiple births in the US. Older women are more likely to have twins, triplets, and quadruplets, with risks increasing by three to six times depending on age and ethnicity.

SourceBrown University·JournalObstetrics and Gynecology·DateSep 11, 2018

Understanding 6th-century barbarian social organization & migration through paleogenomics

Researchers sequenced ancient genomes from two 6th-century cemeteries in Hungary and Italy, shedding light on the lives of Longobard communities. The study found a strong relationship between genetic background and material culture, suggesting that these communities were aware of their differences and it influenced their social identity.

SourceInstitute for Advanced Study·JournalNature Communications·DateSep 11, 2018

'Cloud computing' takes on new meaning for scientists

Researchers from the University of California, Irvine, and other institutions have developed a new method using deep machine learning to simulate cloud physics. The approach achieved stable and accurate multiyear simulations that included realistic precipitation extremes and tropical waves.

SourceUniversity of California - Irvine·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateSep 11, 2018
Anker Laptop Power Bank 25,000mAh (Triple 100W USB-C)

Anker Laptop Power Bank 25,000mAh (Triple 100W USB-C) keeps Macs, tablets, and meters powered during extended observing runs and remote surveys.

A subway map for diabetes

University of Tokyo researchers have developed a trans-omics approach that maps the interactions between molecules inside cells in response to insulin. This comprehensive understanding may lead to better therapies for type 2 diabetes by identifying potential drug targets and optimizing insulin regimens.

SourceUniversity of Tokyo·JournaliScience·DateSep 10, 2018

Molecular switches are not just 'on' or 'off'

Researchers discovered that GTPases like EF-Tu can exist in a mixture of structures, rather than being fixed as 'on' or 'off'. This flexibility may help develop targeted drugs for bacterial infections and cancer treatment.

SourceAarhus University·JournalNucleic Acids Research·DateSep 10, 2018

Transparency may improve US home buyout programs

A Stanford University study found that lack of transparency in US home buyout programs leads to lower participation rates and perpetuates social inequality. The research suggests increasing clarity on decision criteria, community involvement, and emphasis on equitable relocation can improve the program's effectiveness.

SourceStanford University·JournalClimatic Change·DateSep 10, 2018

SUTD researchers resolve a major mystery in 2D material electronics

Researchers from Singapore University of Technology and Design have resolved a major mystery in 2D material Schottky diodes by employing a rigorous theoretical analysis. A new theory describes different variants under a unifying framework, laying down a foundation to unite prior contrasting models.

SourceSingapore University of Technology and Design·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateSep 10, 2018
Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope

Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope combines portable Schmidt-Cassegrain optics with GoTo pointing for outreach nights and field campaigns.

A 'reset' of regulatory T-cells reverses chronic heart failure in mouse model

In a mouse model, researchers found that dysfunctional regulatory T-lymphocytes contribute to sustained inflammation and cardiac enlargement. Removing these cells restored normal function and reversed disease progression. This therapeutic approach suggests a new target for treating human heart failure.

SourceUniversity of Alabama at Birmingham·JournalCirculation·DateSep 10, 2018

Multidisciplinary team tackles agricultural threat to global food security

A team of researchers from Clemson University and two other institutions is working to understand the genetics and structural mechanics behind stalk lodging in corn and sorghum. The study aims to break down complex traits into smaller, intermediate characteristics that can be easily grasped at both genetic and structural levels.

SourceClemson University·DateSep 10, 2018